Does the compressor wiring need to be connected to see if the kickpanel and cowl vacuum operated doors get vacuum. Currently, my compressor is not connected. I get the fan to blow in heat, ac and defrost modes but I can't seem to get vacuum at the kickpanel and cowl vacuum pods.

Nope - the vacuum and electrical systems are independent. :thumbsup:

Any idea why this could be. I have vacuum at the vacuum canister.

the vac comes thru the swith in the dash panel, there is a 3way rubber connector that allows vac to go to those kick panel and cowl. Could be loose or broken rubber line at the main switch area. If there is vac at the canister, it then goes thru the firewall to the switch connector, then to the other areas when you slide the levers up and down. Probably at that rubber boot is where Id look now.

OK, i checked the rubber boot and don't think it's leaking. I think the vacuum switch is the problem. I blow air into one of the hoses and I feel air coming from bottom of switch. Is there anyway to remove and reinstall without removing control box from car? Can these be serviced or do I need a different switch?

Changed the vacuum valve. Kick panel and cowl doors are now closing. It's amazing how little the vacuum is that opens and closes those doors.

Another question, is there anyway to soften the rubber on the cowl door? The rubber on mine is so stiff that the door gets stuck when it tries to open.

Id try vaseline or maybe a small amount of 10w motor oil to soften it :)